Blackberry makes collect call to buy cyber-security firm

CYBER security specialist Encription has been bought by global communications group Blackberry for an undisclosed sum.

The group, which operates from a secure location in Worcestershire, works with organisations to develop and maintain IT security standards, defences and techniques.

Its testing and training services are used by businesses and the public sector to protect their IT and data.

Law firm Higgs & Sons advised Encription on the cross-border transaction, which involved four jursidictions and a tight timeframe.

Encription’s managing director Tony McDowell emphasised the speed, and said “we were always looking to move as quickly as possible on this deal”.

Jamie Partington, an associate in Higgs & Sons’ corporate department, said: “Negotiations bridged England, Canada, Dublin and New York – and the successful and swift completion was satisfying for everyone involved.”

Omerod Rutter provided financial and taxation advice on the disposal and Dillon Eustace in Dublin provided support on Irish jurisdictional elements.